Home 
Newsletter Common Clutter Causes
Often people look
around their once pulled together house or workplace and suddenly realize that
things have gotten out of control. They wonder how and when it happened. There
are many different scenarios that can lead to some household or workplace chaos;
however there are a few causes that affect most people. These causes can easily
lead to disorganization.
Becoming aware of
what these common clutter causes are can help a person realize when they need
to be vigilant about maintaining their systems or examining them to see if they
require change. They can also make people aware of when they may need to look
for outside assistance for solutions, in the form of help from family, friends,
co-workers, or an organizing consultant.
Common Clutter
Causes
- A major
life change: such as a new job, new baby, a move, or a death in the
family.
- Poor
time management: an over committed schedule, or a chaotic, poorly planned
schedule.
- Overstocking
for future use: I may need/use this some day.
- Can’t
say no: to projects, gifts, or guests when you don’t have the resources.
- Emotional
Attachments: "I don’t need, like, or use this, but it was my aunt’s
favorite, or it was my son’s first…"
Simple Clutter
Solvers:
- Delegate
tasks and involve everyone affected. Consider the needs and habits of
everyone.
- Plan
and schedule time to tend to your personal needs, just like you schedule
other appointments.
- Don't
buy items just because they are a good deal if you don’t need them; storing them has a price.
- Learn
that it’s ok to say no to things or suggest an alternative proposal that
works for everyone.
- Don’t
keep things out of guilt. Keep them because you use or love them.
Do an honest
evaluation to see if any of these causes are affecting you and whether you can
put these solutions to work for you. Don’t be scared to seek assistance when
you need it, everyone experiences the life challenges that can lead to clutter.